Seamus, we also recently had a family celebration at a local restaurant and had a cake brought in for it. However, the restaurant did not serve cakes and so we were not bringing anything in that was already available. Like your situation they charged a serving fee which was very reasonable.
I totally agree with those who have commented on the very high mark up's that many restaurants charge (often 2-3x retail or more) but still feel it is not appropriate to bring in a wine that is already available on the restaurants list, or for that matter something that would not be considered a "special bottle" with you. For those who feel differently, we'll agree to disagree. I know that there are a few restaurants in my area that do allow almost any wine that a customer wishes to bring in but that is more a matter of trying to lure people in to fill the seats. My comments here and previously on this post had more to do with higher end restaurants where that isn't really the case.

This discussion has turned ludicrous. Apparently, I have a dissenting opinion and am now told that I am tacky and cheap. Have it your way, but spending $15 for corkage is more of a profit for a restaurant than drinking tap water. They continue to make profits from my appetizer, main course and dessert. Each to her/his own.

OMG! This is going downhill.

BYOB's in NJ do not charge corkage. They provide ice buckets, wine glasses, and are happy to have you dine with them at their restaurant. It's a wonderful experience. ((b))

It seems folks are not understanding if they have a liquor license than you cannot bring your own bottle. Only when the do not! It is agains the law to do so I believe.

It must not be against the law because some restaurants have certain nights set aside when you can BYOB even though they have a liquor license.

diann, in California it is not illegal to bring your own bottle when the restaurant has a liquor license. The restaurant, if they allow it, will charge a corkage fee of course.

I never BYOB. One thing I have never understood, unless one knows absolutely for sure what they are going to order for their meal how do you know what type of wine you want to drink.

I always make a decision after looking at the menu and finding out what the daily specials are.

Anyway, agree that some places do to high of a markup on their wine. Others do not have a great wine list. I try to avoid those places. But sure expect a restaurant to make a profit on everything the sell. They are in business to make a profit and it is not easy in the restaurant business. And having written insurance for many restaurants I am fully aware of their overhead cost.

Loveitaly, definitely agree that when you "BYOB" it is useful to have an idea of what you are going to be having. For instance I wouldn't take a monster cab. to a seafood restaurant (although I have friends who wouldn't think twice about having a young cab with lightly sauteed trout). I happen to be one of those persons who picks the wine first and then the food to accompany. My wife is such a great sport, she usually goes along with me and simply asks that I help her decide on an entree that pairs with the wine I am bringing in.

annetti -
the buffalo is screaming - ease up!